Encouragement can show up in the strangest places

I was in the hospital emergency room the other day, being treated for an allergic reaction to some new medication, when the nurse discovered who I was – and began telling me an amazing story.

It seems her brother-in-law had been homeless many years ago and came to our Mission to get off the streets. After a hot meal and a powerful chapel service, this man surrendered his life to Christ – and set off a chain reaction that has changed his family’s history forever.

First, his brother (the nurse’s husband) heard the man’s story and turned his life over to Jesus. Then this nurse began to get more involved in her church. Pretty soon, the Good News began to trickle down to cousins, nephews, nieces, and other family members.

In all, 21 people in this woman’s family became Christians – and found new life – as a result of one man’s experience at the Mission.

All we provided was food, shelter and the truth of the Gospel. God did the rest, and is still working in this family.

Today, many of them have dedicated their lives – and their careers – to caring for others. So God’s grace has been multiplied all over this city.

That night, I left the hospital thankful for medicines that heal the body – but even more thankful that God uses people like you and me to bring hope to a hurting world.

Thank you for doing your part. You are impacting this city more than you could possibly imagine!

If you have a question for Herb, click here.